PHX Reporter

Gov. Doug Ducey (R-Ariz.) recently signed a one-million-dollar investment into Special Olympics Arizona (SOAZ). The funding will be derived from the American Rescue Act and is part of the already existing Healthy Athletes program, according to a press release from the governor's office. 

21,400 athletes and 24,700 volunteers participate in Special Olympics programs every year in Arizona, the press release said. 

"We are dedicated to helping Special Olympics Arizona in their efforts," Ducey said at a ribbon-cutting ceremony for SOAZ’s new state office and distribution center in Goodyear. "I’m excited to announce that we are investing one million dollars in the Special Olympics Arizona Healthy Athletes Program to help them expand health services to Arizonans with intellectual and developmental disabilities."

Ducey continued, "Sports offer significant benefits to those who play, especially to those with disabilities. Sports help participants learn critical team-building skills, improve their physical health, and experience the joys of competition. Our partnership with Special Olympics Arizona will give more Arizonans the opportunity to not only compete in sports but access critical health services."

Jamie Heckerman, president and CEO of Special Olympics Arizona, took the opportunity to discuss health problems that people with disabilities face. 

"Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) have a higher prevalence of adverse health conditions and are more likely to have unidentified and untreated health issues," Heckerman said. "They also have less access to health care services and health promotion programs, experience greater rates of mental health challenges and bullying, and struggle to live independently."

Heckerman was grateful for the support from Ducey. 

“We can’t thank Gov. Ducey and the state of Arizona enough for this generous gift that will provide more inclusive health programs and assist so many more individuals with IDD to get proper healthcare and treatment to help lead a better quality of life," Heckerman said.